WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of approximately $40 million for Enhanced Transitional Jobs Demonstration grants to help individuals with significant barriers to employment obtain the skills they need through work opportunities.

"Helping Americans get back to work is a priority for the Department of Labor. Work is about dignity, about providing for one's family and strengthening the U.S. economy," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This grant program makes possible work experience and support that will enable low-income non-custodial parents and ex-offenders to become independent and able to support families."

The grants will enable nonprofit community and faith-based organizations, along with a number of local workforce investment boards, to implement transitional job programs for low-income non-custodial parents and ex-offenders. The Labor Department will award six to 12 grants between $3 million and $6 million each.

The programs will offer participants temporary, paid work experiences intended to improve their employability, earnings and opportunities for advancement, as well as promote their self-sufficiency and long-term success in the workforce.

Grantees will be required to participate in a random assignment evaluation to determine how the strategies they use can contribute to the evidence base in generating the best employment and related results for program participants.